Fishing report 10-22

Oregon Coast – Chinook & Coho 

The rain is coming, and with it, the next big push of fish. Most coastal bays have been full of Chinook and Coho for weeks, and the fish are ready to flood the tributaries as rivers rise. Now’s the time to prep gear — get those plugs washed, hooks sharpened, and divers squeaky clean. 

Once the rivers fill and fish begin to move, divers and bait, as well as Kwikfish, Brad’s Killerfish, Mag Lips, and Flatfish, will all produce great results. Wrap plugs with sardines, herring, or tuna for added attraction. Don’t forget multiple egg cures for backbouncing or bobber fishing — both key techniques for success. 

When the water’s high, go big: large baits, strong scents, and added attractants like herring chunks, tuna belly, sardine pieces, or sand shrimp. It’s the time of year to “throw the kitchen sink” at them — high water means aggressive salmon and lots of action. 

Techniques & Baits: Kwikfish, Brad’s Killerfish, Mag Lips, Flatfish, Divers & Bait, Egg Cures, Sardine/Herring/Tuna Wraps, Backbouncing, Bobber Fishing 

 Southwest Washington – B-Run Coho 

The B-Run Coho have arrived, bringing some of the hardest-biting, brightest fish of the season. They’re larger than the early A-Run fish and are notorious for their willingness to bite. With the coming rain, expect a strong push upriver. 

Productive techniques include casting plugs, twitching jigs, bobber-dogging eggs, and casting spinners. Bank anglers are doing well with bobber fishing or drift fishing eggs. These fish are hot, aggressive, and a blast to target right now. 

Techniques & Baits: Casting Plugs, Twitching Jigs, Bobber-Dogging Eggs, Casting Spinners, Drift Fishing 

 Bottomfish – Rockfish & Lingcod 

Bottomfishing continues to be excellent along the coast. Pro Andy Martin reports bouncing between saltwater trips for “fish tacos” and time in the rivers chasing Chinook. Offshore, he’s been consistently finding limits of rockfish and lingcod, with great weather windows and steady action for all on board. 

Techniques & Baits: Jigs, Swimbaits, Bait-Tipped Rigs, Deep-Water Rockpiles 

 Crabbing 

Crabbing remains outstanding and this is one of the best times of the year for full pots and full-bodied crab. Drop your pots before chasing bottomfish or trolling for salmon, then haul them on the way in for a full day’s bounty of fresh Dungeness crab. 

Techniques & Baits: Chicken, Fish Frames, Turkey Legs, Bait Boxes 

 Razor Clams 

Razor clamming has kicked off strong on the Washington coast. During the last opener, limits were the norm, and weather conditions were excellent. The current season features PM digs at Long Beach through Sunday, October 26th. These are evening tides, so pack warm layers, headlamps, and lanterns for a fun and productive night on the sand. 

Techniques & Gear: Clam Guns, Shovels, Lanterns, Headlamps, Warm Gear